Nearly 50 percent of Maryland’s school children qualify for a subsidized or free meal. Last year, for example, 48.9 percent of Maryland elementary students were eligible for free or reduced price meals. Ten years earlier that tally stood at 39 percent — a dramatic increase over the decade.

Nearly 50 percent of Maryland’s school children qualify for a subsidized or free meal. Last year, for example, 48.9 percent of Maryland elementary students were eligible for free or reduced price meals. Ten years earlier that tally stood at 39 percent — a dramatic increase over the decade.